Gov. Beshear warns Kentuckians to get ready for round of ice, freezing rain

With another significant winter storm heading for the state, bringing a potentially dangerous mix of snow, sleet and freezing rain Gov. Steve Beshear is warning Kentuckians to prepare for hazardous driving conditions, flash flooding or power outages.

“This weather system is changing as it approaches the state, so it’s very important to monitor local weather forecasts for the latest outlook for your community,” said Gov. Beshear. “As always, remember to check on your neighbors and the elderly, as ice creates especially hazardous conditions.”

The storm will start as snow, transition to sleet and freezing rain before turning to heavy rain as temperatures warm on Saturday, the Governor’s Office warned in a press release. Regions of the state will experience different impacts from this weather system. Individuals are urged to continually monitor local weather forecast updates.

“We encourage Kentuckians to remain watchful and have an emergency plan,” KYEM Director Michael Dossett said. “The State Emergency Operations Center will remain open and activated throughout this event in support of local emergency management efforts.”

Emergency management officials warn that rain coupled with frozen ground surface could cause flash flooding along small rural streams and in urban areas. Storm drains blocked by snow and ice may contribute to localize urban flooding, they said.

Homeowners can help by checking storm drains in front of their residences and removing any snow or debris in order to allow clear access for drainage.

Road conditions throughout the state can be found on the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s website at www.511.ky.gov, by calling 511 in Kentucky or 1-866-737-3767 for out-of-state callers.

About Nick Storm

Nick Storm is the Anchor and Managing Editor of Pure Politics, the only nightly program dedicated to Kentucky politics. Nick covers all of the political heavyweights and his investigative work brings to light issues that might otherwise go unnoticed, like the connection between the high profile Steubenville, Ohio rape and a Kentucky hacker whose push for further investigation could put him in federal prison. Nick is also working on a feature length bio documentary Outlaw Poet: A documentary on Ron Whitehead. Follow Nick on Twitter @NickStorm_cn2. Nick can be reached at 502-792-1107 or nicholas.storm@charter.com.